The Waterfront at the Slipway

The Waterfront is the restaurant and beach bar of the Slipway complex on the western side of the Msasani Peninsula, about seven kilometres from the city centre. Its tables sit under thatched umbrellas and palm trees by the shore, looking west across Msasani Bay, which makes it one of the most popular places in Dar es Salaam to watch the sun go down.

The menu is broad and informal. Seafood and wood-fired pizzas are the mainstays, and burgers and grilled meats, including nyama choma, are also served, so it works for mixed groups and families with children. Drinks range from local draught beer to cocktails, and the bar side, sometimes listed as the Waterfront Sunset Bar, plays upbeat music at a volume that still allows conversation. Live music has also featured. The restaurant is open to everyone, not just hotel guests.

Timing is everything here. Arrive an hour or so before sunset, particularly at weekends, to get a table near the water, and expect it to be busy on Friday and Saturday evenings. Lunch is quieter and a good way to round off a morning boat trip, since boats to Bongoyo and Mbudya islands leave from the Slipway's own jetty. The Slipway has published 09:30 departures, with boats returning from Bongoyo at 12:30 and from Mbudya at 14:00, though times change and boats only run with enough passengers.

The Waterfront suits couples, families and groups of friends, and it is a relaxed choice for a first evening in the city. Bring insect repellent for evenings by the water, and carry a light layer if the sea breeze picks up. Card payment and opening hours are best confirmed with the hotel reception in advance.

The Slipway complex also has shops selling crafts and souvenirs, a children's playground and massage and hairdressing services, so you can easily spend an afternoon there before your meal. The Msasani Peninsula has plenty of hotels and restaurants within a short taxi ride, and Sea Cliff, Oyster Bay and Masaki are all close by. From the city centre, allow plenty of time in the evening rush hour, and use a licensed taxi or ride-hailing app to get back afterwards.